To paraphrase an assortment of memes—if your favorite show growing up was The OC, or you fangirled hard over Nate Archibald, or you remember Y2K, it’s probably time to use a retinoid.
Mmmm, whatcha saaayyy?
We feel personally attacked, but—okay, fair. Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives, like retinol and tretinoin, which are widely considered the gold standard for treating fine lines, wrinkles, skin tone and texture, and even acne. But they’re also well-known for their potential side effects, like redness and irritation.
Enter: retinoid alternatives. They offer the fine line-reducing, skin-firming, pore-clearing benefits of a retinoid, but they’re gentler and less irritating.
Let’s dive into our favorite retinoid replacements below.
Bakuchiol is derived from plants, and, like retinol, it stimulates collagen and elastin (both things that keep skin firm and plump.) It’s also rich in antioxidants. While bakuchiol hasn’t been studied as thoroughly as retinoids, a clinical trial compared the two and found that not only was bakuchiol comparable with retinol, it was also tolerated better.
Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Serum
Price: $30 - $75
Kora Organics
“What I love about this product is that it is a serum that can be incorporated in both a.m. and p.m. skincare routines. What sets it apart from most serums is that you don’t get that sticky feeling often associated with vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, so you can layer on additional products and feel squeaky clean. Plus, it’s silky smooth and spreads beautifully. You will be shocked at how far a little of this goes. I really only need about a dime-sized drop for my entire face and neck (if not less)!” —Meredith, Senior Manager of eCommerce
Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Moisturizer
Price: $24-$66
Kora Organics
“Just like its sister serum, this moisturizer is gentle enough to be used both day and night. It works great on its own, but even better when it’s paired with the serum (for that extra one-two Bakuchiol punch).” —Meredith, Senior Manager of eCommerce
Botanic-A
Price: $90
Root Science
“This is a true bakuchiol, with an emphasis on the oil. I prefer to use this at night (although it can also be used in the morning) when my face needs a serious break between makeup, free radicals, and all the other icks throughout the day. I apply roughly two pumps to my slightly damp face after cleansing and that’s it! No additional product needed. Makes my skin feel so soft, glowy, and clean (and I love that it is unscented).” —Meredith, Senior Manager of eCommerce
While bakuchiol may be the most well-known of the retinoid alternative plant extracts, it’s far from the only one. Other botanicals like frankincense oil, carrot seed oil, and rose petals (just a few of the botanicals found in the products below) help to promote skin firmness and elasticity, assist cellular regeneration, and nourish and smooth skin.
Balancing Collagen Cream
Price: $195
Surya
“If you’ve ever been lucky enough to experience Surya Spa at the Santa Monica Proper, then these products need no explanation. This cream is creamy to the core and very thick. Just a light dab on the fingertips is all you really need before warming in your hands and spreading over the face. I prefer to use this at night for a little at-home spa treatment, followed by Surya Balancing Face Oil. If you are sensitive to fragrance, the natural aromatics of saffron, frankincense, and rose petals may not be for you.” —Meredith, Senior Manager of eCommerce
Balancing Face Oil
Price: $185
Surya
“I like to use this balancing face oil in conjunction with the Surya Balancing Collagen Cream. After applying the balancing cream, I’ll use a pump of the oil and seal it all in with the Surya Kansa Wand. De-puffing and massaging my tired skin feels amazing after a long day. (I usually do this in bed). If you want to try this ritual without committing to the full-size products, the Surya Skincare Discovery Set is a steal (and makes a great gift).” —Meredith, Senior Manager of eCommerce
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